Research team and their hosts Forest Officer, Agness Ngao in a group photo under one of the big trees in Mazumbai Forest Reserve
The American students from the School for International Training (SIT) at Mazumbai Forest Reserve in Tanga Region, Tanzania, had the opportunity to conduct field work on Tropical Forest biodiversity. Mazumbai Forest Reserve is one of the SUA’s outposts where forestry students, Wildlife Management, Bachelor of Tourism Management from the Department of Ecosystem and Conservation, Department of Wildlife Management and Department of Tourism and Recreation conducts their field work as part of the university’s effort to ensure it produces competent graduates.
This year, the American students from SIT, who have a partnership with Sokoine University of Agriculture, visited Mazumbai Forest Reserve to study tropical forests. Their main objective was to measure forest longevity at Mazumbai and the Sagara community forest and compare their biodiversity but also investigating ground dwelling invertebrates using pitfall traps/bowls.
Research team getting things done deep in the heart of Mazumbai Forest Reserve
The Coordinator of the School for International Training Oscar Nyakunga with one of the students during the study
This research field work provided the students with a hands-on experience in studying and measuring biodiversity in tropical forests. It also allowed them to contribute to the ongoing efforts in forest management and conservation in the region. The students spent several weeks at the forest reserve, collecting data, setting up traps, and documenting the plant and animal species they encountered. They worked closely with local experts and community members to ensure that their research was thorough and respectful of the environment and the people who depend on it. Their findings will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on tropical forest biodiversity and will help inform future conservation and management efforts in the region.
Research team having some fun during work breaks
Apart from the research studies being conducted at Mazumbai Forest Reserve, STI students demonstrated their commitment to the community by donating a concrete brick making machine to Kizanda Secondary School in Bumbuli, which is adjacent to the reserve. This generous donation will not only benefit the school but also the surrounding community by providing an opportunity for the school to generate income and improve its infrastructure. The donation reflects the students’ understanding of the importance of supporting the local community and their desire to make a positive impact beyond their research activities. By investing in the school’s infrastructure, the students are contributing to the long-term development of the area and strengthening the relationship between the School of International Training and the community adjacent to Mazumbai Forest Reserve.
Mazumbai staff team and School for International Training students during delivery of concrete brick machine at Kizanda Secondary School
A group photo after delivery of concrete brick making machine at Kizanda secondary school
This initiative highlights the holistic approach that the School for International Training (SIT) students are taking in their studies, recognizing that environmental conservation and community development go hand in hand. It also serves as a reminder that research and academic pursuits can have tangible benefits for the communities in which they are conducted. The students’ efforts are a testament to the School of International Training’s commitment to responsible and impactful research practices.
Researchers enjoying their time with brightest smiles around Mazumbai Forest Reserve Campus
In addition to their research and community service efforts, the SIT students also engaged in a village development activity by visiting the Village Executive Officer and donating an amount of Tzs 500,000 for various village development activities. This generous donation demonstrates the students’ commitment to supporting the local community and contributing to the overall well-being of the area.
The manager of Mazumbai Forest Reserve, Stephano Kingazi and the research team at the village offices delivering their donation
Mazumbai Forest Reserve Manager, Stephano Kingazi and SIT Coordinator Mr. Oscar Nyakunga in a group photo with researchers and village leaders after their short meeting
During their visit to the village, the research students and the Mazumbai Forest Reserve Manager were treated to a camping experience and an evening coffee session with their hosts. This opportunity allowed the students to connect with the local community on a more personal level and gain a deeper understanding of the village’s needs and challenges.
Mazumbai Forest Reserve manager having a conversation accompanied with some coffee with his guest after field work
The research students were able to enjoy the serene environment and bond with their hosts, making them feel at home. This development activity highlights the students’ dedication to creating a positive impact beyond their academic pursuits. It also serves as a reminder that research and academic pursuits can have tangible benefits for the communities in which they are conducted. The students’ efforts are a testament to the School of International Training’s commitment to responsible and impactful research practices.
For more information about Mazumbai Forest Reserve visit the links below;
The Principal,
College of Forest, Wildlife and Tourism
Email address: forestry@sua.ac.tz
